Life on the Mississippi

Life on the Mississippi is a 1980 made-for-television film based on the classic American novel by Mark Twain. It's directed by Peter H. Hunt and features a stellar cast that includes Robert Lansing, David Knell, James Keane, and Donald Madden.

The story follows the journey of a young man named Sam Clemens, who dreams of becoming a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River. Despite facing many hardships and setbacks along the way, Sam never loses sight of his goal and eventually achieves his dream.

The film is set against the backdrop of the mid-19th century, a time when steamboats were the primary mode of transportation in America's heartland. It provides a vivid and engaging portrayal of a bygone era, complete with all the sights and sounds of life on the Mississippi River.

Robert Lansing plays the role of Horace Bixby, a legendary steamboat pilot and Sam's mentor. Bixby is a tough, no-nonsense character who puts Sam through his paces, teaching him the ins and outs of piloting a steamboat. Lansing brings a gruff authenticity to the role, embodying the spirit of a man who has spent his entire life on the river.

David Knell plays the role of Sam Clemens, a young man with big dreams and an adventurous spirit. Sam is determined to become a steamboat pilot, despite the many obstacles and challenges he faces along the way. Knell is perfectly cast as the plucky and determined young hero, delivering a nuanced and heartfelt performance that draws the viewer into Sam's journey.

James Keane plays the role of Dan, a rough-and-tumble riverboat captain who initially disdains Sam but eventually comes to respect him. Keane brings a grizzled intensity to the role, giving the character a sense of rough-and-tumble authenticity.

Finally, Donald Madden plays the role of Mr. Brown, a wealthy passenger who hires Sam to pilot his boat. Madden gives a nuanced and subtle performance, imbuing the character with a sense of world-weariness and regret.

Overall, Life on the Mississippi is a beautifully crafted film that provides a compelling and engaging view of life on the river. It captures the spirit of Mark Twain's novel, and does justice to the rich history and culture of the American Midwest. The performances are uniformly excellent, and the direction is top-notch. If you're a fan of Twain's work, or simply enjoy a good period drama, then Life on the Mississippi is definitely worth checking out.